Michael P. Kitt
Question:210 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Minister for Public Enterprise the areas of her Department that use answering machines; the savings involved in each case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8742/98]
Written Answers. - Departmental Technology.
My Department does not use any such machines in its day to day operations. Our switchboard is staffed during normal office hours. Outside of these hours callers are connected to a recorded message which allows them the option of leaving a message for the relevant staff member.
The Department also operates a system of DDI (Direct Dialling Inwards) which allows callers to use the prefix of 604, plus the extension number of the staff member being sought, to bypass the switchboard. Staff are urged to publicise this as much as possible. In addition, voicemail facilities are available which staff use when appropriate.